Review of snaring for Scottish Government, prepared by Scottish Natural Heritage

Annex 4 - Snare Questions and Responses from Approved Training Bodies

The Review of Snaring Group contacted approved training bodies to establish how they comply with article 3(3) of the The Snares (Training) (Scotland) Order 2015. Five responded, the questions and answers provided are detailed below:

Q. What measures do you employ to assess competency of trainees to attain a snaring certificate- for instance is a scoring matrix used with a minimum score required to attain a pass?

Answers provided:

1. All candidates must demonstrate a level of competency, throughout the course. Any weaknesses are discussed. We also stipulate a 100% pass mark with the multiple choice question paper. Continuous assessment and training of trainees to address weaknesses.

2. We use the standard issue assessment paper as used by all trainers.

3. Our trainers assess the competence of trainees throughout the training course and they are then required to obtain a minimum score in order to attain a pass.

4. Scoring matrix for written exam with a minimum pass mark.

Practical assessments carried out by experienced assessors.

5. Minimum score of 21 out of 24 to be achieved in the exam paper.

Q. Do any trainees fail the training course and if so how many?

Answers provided:

1. Our intention is not to fail, it is a training awareness related course. All candidates are reminded of their responsibilities, as an operator.

2. To date none have failed

3. Not to date.

4. 2 - College students who did not meet the required standard.

5. GWCT has failed only one candidate over the years since the course was ratified. This candidate passed after second sitting. The Industry prides itself on thorough course delivery.

Q. What measures do you employ to ensure quality assurance of the training course and trainer to meet the requirements of Article 3 of The Snares (Training) (Scotland) Order 2015 (see Appendix)?

Answers provided:

1. Staff, are currently up to date with current industry best practice. All training delivered is tailored to meet the current standards associated with the COPFS.

Certification, is awarded where an individual demonstrates the evidence requirements for this award / certification.

2. All teaching staff have the relevant training \ assessing qualifications as well as relevant industrial experience

3. Our trainers are active snaring practitioners who have a thorough understanding of the relevant legislation as well as wider wildlife management practice and law.

4. All information and processes are frequently updated and current

Trainer/Assessor is experienced in course delivery and also in the operation of the hardware

Trainer knowledge base is constantly updated and current

Contemporary materials/equipment used to deliver the course.

5. The GWCT trainer responsible for delivering the course is in close contact with GWCT researchers who undertake predation control research, including on-going development of humane hardware. The GWCT communicates developments to Industry groups, Trust members and Approved snare training bodies.

GWCT responsible for course development.

The existing course content and exam has been approved by Scottish Government.

Q. Are operators familiar with the registration process with Police Scotland to obtain a snare ID number, and is it clear where they can attend to submit a registration application?

Answers provided:

1. This information is normally given as course delivery material. Yes.

2. The relevant information that clients require is included in their training packs

3. SACS provides trainees with the necessary application form and explains the registration process as part of the training. Prior to attending the training course, candidates are not generally familiar with the process, although they usually understand that there is Police involvement.

4. On the whole yes. There has been recent confusion after a new operator tried to register at his local Police Station, only to be told by a junior officer that he must go to Glasgow and register there. The operator lives 2 hours from Glasgow! The process should be clarified with all Police Staff.

5. All operators are familiar with the registration process. The procedure is clearly explained during snare training courses.

We feel it is important that Police Scotland informs Approved Training Bodies as to which (all) stations are 'equipped' to deal with snare certificate applications.

Q. Are operators aware of the information required by Police Scotland to complete the registration?

Answers provided:

1. A hard copy of this information is given (application document). Yes

2. Yes

3. Again, SACS informs candidates of the information required as part of the training; candidates are not usually fully aware of what is required prior to attending a training course.

4. Yes. This is fully covered during the course delivery.

5. The Police Scotland certificate application form (included in the course 'pack') is completely clear on what is required.

Training bodies responsible for delivering the snare training course are thorough in ensuring candidates are fully aware of and clear on the application process.

Q. What is the average turnaround period to obtain a snare ID number, from the time a registration application is submitted?

Answers provided:

1. I am not entirely sure of this timescale.

2. 4 - 6 weeks

3. We do not have this information

4. Not fully known but a recent applicant was told "It may be a few weeks".

5. We believe it to be 2-3 weeks, with only occasional problems/unacceptable delay encountered by the applicant. Given the demands of other work received by Police Scotland, we feel that a 2 week turn-around should be achievable.